A ruby is a gorgeous red gem from the corundum family and is ranked among the most attractive and valuable gems. A first-time ruby purchase can be confusing and scary at the same time because you have to consider the color, origin, clarity, certification, and price of the stone. To make it easy for you to pick the right ruby stone, here is a simple and beginner-friendly ruby stone buying guide.
1. Focus on the Color First
Color is the most important value factor in rubies. A high-quality ruby should have:
Color that is both vivid and deep red
Very strong color saturation
A very small brown or purple tint
The blood of the dove is how the most desirable ruby color is called – bright, pure, and full of life. The richer the red hue, the more valuable the gemstone becomes.
2. Check for Clarity and Natural Inclusions
Almost every natural ruby stone has inclusions, which are tiny internal characteristics formed in nature. However:
Rubies with fewer visible inclusions are more valuable
Too many cracks or cloudy areas affect both beauty and price
Don’t forget that a heavily glass-filled or treated gemstone may be visually appealing but it won’t be durable and it will lack real value.
3 Always Ask for Certification
A certified ruby ensures that the stone is:
Natural
Untreated or fairly treated
Graded by a trusted laboratory
To be sure you are buying a natural and not a heat-treated or synthetic ruby, ask for certificates issued by the following gemological laboratories: IGI, GRS, or GIA.
4. Consider the Origin
The price of a ruby depends greatly on where it was mined:
Burmese Rubies – Most luxurious & expensive due to exceptional color
Mozambican Rubies – Good quality at reasonable prices
Thai, Vietnamese, Tanzanian Rubies – Affordable with darker tones
For beginners, Mozambique rubies provide a great balance between quality and budget.
5. Choose the Right Cut and Carat Size
A well-cut ruby enhances brilliance and color. Always look for:
Proper symmetry
Good polish
Even color distribution
Ruby prices rise sharply with size, so start with a 1 to 3-carat stone if you want good quality without overspending.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Buy from trusted and reputable sellers
- Never skip certification
- Don’t judge value only by size
- Prioritize color and natural beauty
Buying a ruby ring is both an emotional and valuable investment. With the right knowledge, even beginners can choose a stunning gemstone that offers beauty, durability, and long-lasting value.
